Seoul Winter Festa Draws 1.19 Million in Three Days
Creatrip Team
3 months ago
Seoul’s Winter Festa — combining the Seoul Lantern (빛초롱축제) and Gwanghwamun Market (a Christmas market) — attracted about 1.19 million visitors from Dec 12–14. Crowds filled Cheonggyecheon and Gwanghwamun Square, with social media-driven photo hotspots such as a 70m “I LOVE Gyarados” (Pokémon) display and a Rudolph carousel under a 15m tree. The festival blends traditional Korean paper lantern (한지 등) aesthetics with modern LED art, highlighted by a piece inspired by the first lights of Gyeongbokgung’s Geoncheonggung. More than 100 local small-business vendors sold crafts, food and seasonal goods; entry to both events is free and Gwanghwamun Market runs through Dec 31 while the lantern festival continues until Jan 4. Organizers recommend visiting on weekday evenings (6–8 PM) for fewer crowds; special programs include free Santa photo events Dec 21–25 and interactive brand collaboration zones.
